A Joyful Practice

SEAT & BREATH CONTROL, THE PHYSICAL PRACTICE

Hatha Yoga (sometimes translated as “Sun-Moon Union” or “Union By Force”) is the physical practice of yoga. While it can include other elements of yoga philosophy, it is primarily a combination of the 3rd limb, asana, (“seat” or “posture”) and the 4th limb, pranayama (“breath control”). Hatha Yoga was traditionally practiced in order to prepare a person for deep meditation. The texts listed below focus on the physical practice, but also explore the entire philosophy of yoga. (NOTE: This reading list reflects my personal practice, which is is heavily influenced by vinyasa/Ashtanga/Jivamukti and Iyengar. If you are interested in other styles/traditions, please let me know and I will find you a resource.)

Hatha Yoga Pradipika (“Light on the Sun and Moon Union”), Svatmarama

Ashtanga Yoga Primer, Baba Hari Das

Jivamukti Yoga, Sharon Gannon and David Life

Light on Yoga (Yoga Dipika), B. K. S. Iyengar

B. K. S. Iyengar Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health, B. K. S. Iyengar

Light on Pranayama(The Yogic Art of Breathing), B. K. S. Iyengar

Yoga Mala, Sri Pattabhi Jois

Ashtanga Yoga: The Practice Manual: A Simplified Guide for Daily Practice, David Swenson

The Journey from The Center to The Page: Yoga Philosophies and Practices as Muse for Authentic Writing, Jeff Davis